Ireland by train

Ireland train travel gives you the best of two worlds. The Republic of Ireland offers an enchanting green landscape, the lively capital Dublin, famous castles, and charming pubs. In Northern Ireland you can visit the impressive coastline, explore the history, and visit the vibrant capital Belfast.

Places to visit in Ireland

City Hall, Belfast

A city moving forward

Likely most known for its violent and troubled past, Belfast today is a bright, optimistic, and forward-moving city. Boasting an excellent nightlife and fantastic food, Northern Ireland’s capital shouldn’t be missed. The past is not forgotten, however, and memorials like the Peace Wall abound. Check out the revamped Ulster Museum and the magnificent City Hall.

Belfast Central Station is adjacent to Waterfront Hall and St. George’s Market, about 10 minutes from the city center.

Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

Coastal wonders

The karst landscape of The Burren, and the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher are the reason a million visitors per year come to County Clare. The cliffs are breathtaking – and well worth a day of exploring. Hike around, or take a spectacular ferry ride and admire the dramatic cliff-face from below. While in County Clare, check out Bunratty Castle, a 15th century wonder, and Folk Park a 26-acre wonderland.

The fastest way to County Clare and the Cliffs of Moher is by bus or taxi.

Giants Causeway

Giant's Causeway

Praised for its outstanding natural beauty, the North Coast ‘s spectacular rock formation contains 40,000 interlocking basalt columns – the result of an volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. Be sure to look out for the bizarre chimney stacks and the Giant’s Boot, while breathing in the fresh sea air. Runkerry Head provides an extraordinary two-mile walk.

The Causeway Coast can be reached by bus from Portrush and Coleraine train stations.

Cobblestone street in Galway

Perfect blend of old and new

Known as the ‘cultural heart’ of the Republic, Galway is home to an exciting blend of ancient architecture and modern fun. Stroll the medieval cobblestone streets and enter the ultra-modern clubs, restaurants and bars. The best people-watching can be done at Eyre Square and popular Kennedy Park. For a touch of culture, try Lynch’s Castle. Galway is also your entryway to the Aran Islands, if the mood takes you.

Galway Station is directly across from Eyre Square and Kennedy Park.

Trinity college, Dublin

The home of Guinness

This vibrant, multicultural mecca has an ancient soul, but a youthful attitude. After a day of sightseeing, including Trinity College & Book of Kells, the National Gallery and the Dublin Writer’s Museum, be sure you save some energy to tour the Guinness Storehouse and party the night away in the Temple Bar District. In Ireland, the Guinness flows like water, and visitors should at least indulge in a pint or two.

The Pearse Street Train Station sets you off right on the edge of the Trinity College campus.

Blarney Castle near Cork

Uncork the real Ireland

Many residents consider Cork (Corcaigh) to be the true capital of Ireland. And with good reason. The city has a modern, vibrant and progressive feel, and a colorful history. Home to Murphy's Stout and host to the famous Guinness Jazz Festival in October, Cork is also the city closest to Blarney (An Bhlarna), location of the famous castle and even more famous Blarney Stone. An absolute must-see on your Irish rail adventure.

From Cork Kent Station, it’s a 15-minute taxi ride to Blarney.

Benefits in Ireland

Stena Line ferry

Boat trips

With a valid Eurail Pass for Ireland, you'll get discounted travel on ferry routes to the following countries:

France

Wales

England

Scotland

Railtours Ireland

Eurail Pass holders can get a discount of up to 30 Euros on a variety of guided tours by train.

Spelling of city names

On Irish train timetables and at train stations in Ireland, you'll usually find the local spelling of Irish cities and stations. Here is the local spelling of some popular Irish cities:

Cork = Corcaigh

Galway = Gaillimh

Kilkenny = Cill Chainnigh

Killarney = Cill Airne

Limerick = Luimneach

Mallow = Mala

Rail passes for Ireland

Known as the Emerald Isle, Ireland is brimming with stories and charm. Take in the lush green landscapes from the train window as you speed between characteristic cities and unmissable natural attractions. Plot a route through Dublin, Cork, Galway and Belfast with a Eurail Pass – and don't forget to stop for a Guinness!

Select Pass

Global Pass

Train travel in Ireland in images

Ancient ruins of a castle, Ireland

Dunquin Pier

Temple Bar, Dublin

Kylemore Abbey

Belfast Castle

Trains in Ireland

Rail network

The national railway company of Ireland is called Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail). Irish Rail provides a modern, comfortable and frequent rail service to most parts of Ireland. Visit the website of the Irish railway company: Irish Rail.

Please note that on most Irish trains there is no class distinction.

Most trains in Ireland operate to and from Dublin. There are two main stations in Dublin: Connolly Station and Heuston Station. There are no trains from Dublin Connolly to Dublin Heuston, so you have to take a tram or bus to connect between these stations.

Your Eurail pass is also valid on the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport), a suburban railway network in the Dublin area operated by Irish Rail. You have to show your pass at the ticket office to get access through the entrance gates.

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